2019 Volkswagen Touareg gets 170kW V6 TDI option in the UK

New low-output V6 oiler serves as new entry point to flagship SUV line-up.

The new-generation Volkswagen Touareg has already been on sale in the UK for a while, and the company’s British division has announced an additional engine variant this week.

Starting at £48,995 ($85,397), the new 231PS (170kW) 3.0 TDI V6turbo-diesel is essentially a lower-output version of the 281PS (206kW) oiler that has been available since launch in the UK.

Peak power is available between 3250 and 4750rpm, while 500Nm of torque is on tap between 1750 and 3000rpm. Despite the lower outputs, the base Touareg retains its 3500kg maximum tow rating.

Drive continues to be sent to all four wheels via an eight-speed automatic transmission, and a limited-slip differential.

Volkswagen UK will offer the new engine variant across all three trim levels of its flagship SUV – currently known as SEL, R-Line and R-Line Tech.

All models are equipped with a 9.2-inch infotainment system with satellite navigation, digital radio, leather upholstery, LED ambient interior lighting, steering-mounted paddle shifters, and voice control.

The ‘entry-level’ SEL gets 19-inch ‘Osorno’ alloys, full-LED headlights with static LED cornering lights, along with LED fog-lights and tail-lights. Other highlights include adaptive cruise control and autonomous emergency braking.

At the top of the range is the R-Line Tech, which gets a massive 15-inch touchscreen navigation system with online route calculation and learning function for frequent routes, 14-way power-adjustable front seats with memory, along with keyless entry and push-button start.

Australia

Volkswagen’s local division is expecting the all-new Touareg to touch down in Australian showrooms during the second quarter of 2019.

At this stage, a version of the V6 turbo-diesel has been confirmed at launch, while a V8 turbo-diesel is high on the wish list. A turbocharged V6 could be offered locally, too.

However, Volkswagen Australia was quick to rule out the plug-in hybrid version available overseas, citing its commitment to all-electric models Down Under.